Get Involved

Calling all veterinarians and veterinary students: we need YOUR help!

Each year, members of Congress introduce thousands of bills, but according to National Journal, roughly 2 percent ever become law. With the stakes high—it is critical that our nation's leaders hear how bills will impact their constituents (you!) and the lives of the animals within their districts so that they can advocate for scientifically sound policies that will advance the profession and improve public and animal health. Being an advocate for veterinary medicine is FAST and EASY. See how you can get involved below. Do your civic duty and take action today!

AVMA CAN is a community of more than 30,000 veterinarians, veterinary students and friends of veterinary medicine who are committed to protecting our profession. Every day, Congress and regulatory agencies make decisions that impact veterinarians and issues we care about - like animal health, animal welfare and public health. AVMA CAN gives you tools to speak up on these issues, protect our profession and ensure that veterinary values are preserved. Join today!

Are you a veterinarian who is interested in developing public policy, while serving your country and enhancing your career? Then, check out AVMA's Congressional Fellowship Program, which offers three veterinarians the paid opportunity to work for one year in Washington, D.C., as scientific advisors to members of Congress.

Are you a third or fourth year veterinary student who is looking to gain hands-on experience in educating members of Congress about issues that impact the profession while networking with officials from across the federal government? Then, apply to work in AVMA's Government Relations Division for a four-week externship.

The AVMA Government Relations Division (GRD​) is teaming up with the Student AVMA (SAVMA) to host the 10th annual Legislative Fly-in that will bring veterinary students and veterinarians to Washington, D.C. to participate in a two-day legislative workshop.​

Are you an AVMA or SAVMA member who is looking to get more involved in federal advocacy? Then learn more about the AVMA PAC, which provides financial support to select candidates who are seeking election to the U.S. Congress.

From e-mailing your member of Congress to submitting a letter to the editor to your local newspaper to participating in a town hall meeting, grassroots advocacy comes in all shapes and sizes. The AVMA encourages veterinarians to get involved in local, state and national politics so they can be the scientific resource on policies that will impact the veterinary profession and animal health and welfare. This page provides a number of tools that can help get you started.​​